Confirming speculation, Apple just announced via a press release that its annual developer conference will run this year from June 11 through June 15 at the Moscone Center in San Francisco, a week after this year’s Electronic Entertainment Expo show. Tickets are now on sale, available from $1,599 for conference passes.

If history is anything to go by, WWDC 2012 will sell out in a matter of hours. If you’re planning on attending the conference, better get your tickets right now, right here.

Unlike previous WWDCs, however, this time around Apple is mandating that attendees with conference passes be members of one of their developer programs…

Apple quoted in the press releases its senior vice president of Worldwide Marketing, Philip Schiller:

We have a great WWDC planned this year and can’t wait to share the latest news about iOS and OS X Mountain Lion with developers. The iOS platform has created an entirely new industry with fantastic opportunities for developers across the country and around the world.

The mention of the iOS platform is a strong indication that WWDC 2012 could see Apple preview iOS 6, the next major updated to its mobile operating system.

The WWDC website provides an overview of the sessions planned for the five-day conference, including:

• more than 100 technical sessions presented by Apple engineers on a wide range of technology-specific topics for developing, deploying and integrating the latest iOS and OS X technologies • 100 hands-on labs staffed by more than 1,000 Apple engineers providing developers with code-level assistance, insight into optimal development techniques and guidance on how they can make the most of iOS and OS X technologies in their apps • the opportunity to connect with thousands of fellow iOS and OS X developers from around the world—last year more than 60 countries were represented • engaging and inspirational lunchtime sessions with leading minds and influencers from the worlds of technology, science and entertainment • Apple Design Awards which recognize iPhone®, iPad® and Mac® apps that demonstrate technical excellence, innovation and outstanding design.

We’re expecting various other updates at WWDC 2012. Specifically, Apple should update us on the progress of OS X Mountain Lion and likely unveil a refreshed MacBook lineup right on the heels of Intel’s Ivy Bridge announcement.